Government extends commercial eviction ban until end of year

The government has decided to extend its commercial property eviction ban until the end of 2020.

Businesses have been shielded from eviction over the last six months through the lease forfeiture and debt enforcement moratoria, which was originally set to end on 1 October.

Retail and hospitality trade associations, including UKHospitality, have been lobbying the government to extend the ban until early 2021.

The new extension will provide commercial tenants with greater security and protect jobs as businesses recover from the economic fallout of Covid-19.

Secretary of State for Housing Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP said: ‘‘I am announcing today that we are extending support to protect those businesses that are unable to pay their rent from eviction to the end of the year. 

‘‘This will stop businesses going under and protect jobs over the coming months. This government is committed to supporting businesses and our high streets at this difficult time, and this extension of support will help businesses recover from the impacts of the pandemic and plan for the future.’’

Business Secretary Alok Sharma said: ‘‘During this particularly challenging time for businesses, it is crucial that both landlords and tenants have the clarity and reassurance they need to build back better from the pandemic.

‘‘Extending the temporary measures we put in place earlier this year to protect businesses from the threat of eviction will give them some much-needed breathing space at a critical moment in the UK’s economic recovery.’’